Comparison Study of Visual Search on 6 Different Types of Icons

Abstract

In order to study the similarities and differences of the visual search features on different types of icons in the human-computer interface, using digital icons, English icons, Chinese icons, abstract icons, graphical icons and image icons as experimental materials. Combined with eye tracking devices, a visual search experiment was designed adopting E-Prime programming, and a comparative study was conducted from 3 aspects of reaction time, correct rate, and eye movement characteristics. The results of single factor analysis of variance indicated that: (1) The difference among 6 different types of icons in reaction time of visual search was statistically significant, and the reaction time was ranked as digital icons > English icons > Chinese icons > abstract icons > graphical icons > image icons. (2) In addition to the abstract icons, the other 5 types of icons in the visual search showed no obvious error. (3) As for the eye movement characteristics of 6 different types of icons, there were significant differences in fixation duration, fixation times, saccade amplitude and saccade speed, however, pupil diameter and blink frequency were not significantly different. The research results have reference value for the icon design and usability evaluation in human-computer interface.